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Gold ring

Hello folks
Here's my first attempt at engraving a ring, not used to the size. A great challenge but not the biggest challenge for this client, I hope to show another piece totally different in size shape and complexity when it's completed. I made the band out of 18k and is 9.5mm x 2mm.
Couldn't see the dirt (please excuse) when I got this shot and had one heck of a time trying to get a decent photo.
Any comments and critique is welcomed.
A question for the jewelers or anyone for that matter, is it typical to blacken the cuts on a ring as this? It would be easier to photo I believe.
Thanks for looking.
Mark

Arnaud,
Thank you, I didn't think that aging this one would be the correct thing to do.
JJ Thanks for the tip, I never think of using ammonia for clean up. I do use it to age brass, does a great job depending on the color desired.
Mark

Thanks Mike
I'm glad I didn't antique the finish. I delivered the ring to my friend's wife and now the agony of waiting a week. She gave the smile and words of approval now the test will be the wearer.
Mark

Hi Mark,
Nice job...I like the substantial weight of the ring. While I wouldn't personally choose to blacken this ring....if I did want to I'd heat oxidize it, then highlight it by hand using a soft cotton cloth like an old t-shirt (or a soft chamois) onto which I'd rubbed a bit of tripoli. To heat oxidize just clean it very well and heat to red heat without any cover flux till it blackens uniformly. I'd practice on a bit of similar alloy first.

Christiaan,
Yes my friend it has been a while .........what no powder horns to barter.?lol I understand you may be seeing a mutual friend. Please share with me the stories as they arise. Fare well !
Two Claws, Thank you I've not known of that trick, greatly appreciate it. The ring is now waiting to be gifted and I'm feverishly working to complete another piece of the anniversary puzzle. I'll share this piece once it is on it's way to finish the festivity, neither spouse knows I'm doing both gifts again. Another week of secrecy prevails. I did not oxidize the ring by the way.
Mark

Yes Two Claws, that is a good trick, I use it from time to time when needed.
On silver I heat red, put it in the safe pickles, then lay it in chlorine, the one is used to disinfect the kitchen sink or whatever. Then don't put it in the pickles again, just polishing the upper surface.